Page 58 of 308
![Mercury Mercury Cougar 1997 Owners Manuals 56
*
[AS60900( ALL)04/96]
Common Radio Reception
Conditions
*
[AS61000( ALL)08/95]
Several conditions prevent FM reception from
being completely clear and noise-free, such as
the following:
*
[AS61100 Mercury Mercury Cougar 1997 Owners Manuals 56
*
[AS60900( ALL)04/96]
Common Radio Reception
Conditions
*
[AS61000( ALL)08/95]
Several conditions prevent FM reception from
being completely clear and noise-free, such as
the following:
*
[AS61100](/manual-img/33/10905/w960_10905-57.png)
56
*
[AS60900( ALL)04/96]
Common Radio Reception
Conditions
*
[AS61000( ALL)08/95]
Several conditions prevent FM reception from
being completely clear and noise-free, such as
the following:
*
[AS61100( ALL)08/95]
1. Distance/Strength
*
[AS61200( ALL)08/95]
The strength of the FM signal is directly related
to the distance the signal must travel. The
listenable range of an average FM signal is
approximately 25 miles (40 kilometers). Beyond
this distance, the radio is operating in a fringe
area and the signal becomes weaker.
*
[AS61300( ALL)04/96]
NOTE: Always make sure your antenna is
fully extended to the maximum length
for proper reception. If your antenna is
not fully extended, you may experience
signal loss while traveling in fringe
reception areas.
*
[AS61400( ALL)08/95]
2. Terrain
*
[AS61500( ALL)08/95]
The terrain (hilly, mountainous, tall buildings) of
the area over which the signal travels may
prevent the FM signal from being noise-free.
*
[AS61700( ALL)08/95]
If there is a building or large structure between
the antenna and station, some of the signal
ªbendsº around the building, but certain spots
receive almost no signal. Moving out of the
ªshadowº of the structure will allow the station
to return to normal.
*
[AS61800( ALL)08/95]
When the radio waves are reflected off objects or
structures, the reflected signal cancels the normal
signal, causing the antenna to pick up noise and
distortion. Cancellation effects are most
prominent in metropolitan areas, but also can
become quite severe in hilly terrain and
depressed roadways.
File:04rcasc.ex
Update:Thu May 30 10:24:18 1996
Page 59 of 308
![Mercury Mercury Cougar 1997 Owners Manuals 57
*
[AS61900( ALL)08/95]
To minimize these conditions, a stereo/mono
blend circuit has been incorporated into this
system. This feature automatically switches a
weak stereo signal to a clearer monaur Mercury Mercury Cougar 1997 Owners Manuals 57
*
[AS61900( ALL)08/95]
To minimize these conditions, a stereo/mono
blend circuit has been incorporated into this
system. This feature automatically switches a
weak stereo signal to a clearer monaur](/manual-img/33/10905/w960_10905-58.png)
57
*
[AS61900( ALL)08/95]
To minimize these conditions, a stereo/mono
blend circuit has been incorporated into this
system. This feature automatically switches a
weak stereo signal to a clearer monaural signal,
which improves the quality of reception.
*
[AS62000( ALL)08/95]
Several sources of static are normal conditions
on AM frequencies. These can be caused by
power lines, electric fences, traffic lights and
thunderstorms.
*
[AS62100( ALL)08/95]
Another reception phenomenon isStrong Signal
Capture and Overload. This can occur when
listening to a weak station and when passing
another broadcast tower. The close station may
capture the more distant station, although the
displayed frequency does not change. While
passing the tower, the station may switch back
and forth a few times before returning to the
original station.
*
[AS62200( ALL)03/96]
When several broadcast towers are present
(common in metropolitan areas), several stations
may overload the receiver, resulting in
considerable station changing, mixing and
distortion.
*
[AS62300( ALL)08/95]
Automatic gain control circuitry for both AM
and FM bands has been incorporated into this
system to reduce strong signal capture and
overload.
%
*
[AS62400( ALL)08/95]
All About Radio Frequencies
*
[AS62500( ALL)08/95]
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
and the Canadian Radio Telecommunications
Commission (CRTC) establish the frequencies
that AM and FM radio stations may use for
their broadcasts. The allowable frequencies are,
AM: 530, 540...1600, 1610 kHz in 10 kHz steps;
FM: 87.9, 88.1...107.7, 107.9 MHz in 0.2 MHz
steps.
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Page 60 of 308
![Mercury Mercury Cougar 1997 Owners Manuals 58
*
[AS62600( ALL)08/95]
Not all frequencies will be assigned to a given
area. This radio will tune to each of these
frequencies using manual tune and no fine
tuning is necessary as radio stations ma Mercury Mercury Cougar 1997 Owners Manuals 58
*
[AS62600( ALL)08/95]
Not all frequencies will be assigned to a given
area. This radio will tune to each of these
frequencies using manual tune and no fine
tuning is necessary as radio stations ma](/manual-img/33/10905/w960_10905-59.png)
58
*
[AS62600( ALL)08/95]
Not all frequencies will be assigned to a given
area. This radio will tune to each of these
frequencies using manual tune and no fine
tuning is necessary as radio stations may not use
other frequencies.
*
[AS62700( ALL)08/95]
Some FM radio stations advertise a
ªrounded-offº frequency which is not the
frequency they actually broadcast on. For
example, a radio station that is assigned a
frequency of 98.7 MHz may call itself ªRadio 99º
even though 99.0 MHz is not an allowable FM
broadcast frequency.
%
*
[AS62800( ALL)08/95]
Important Warranty and Service
Information
*
[AS62900( ALL)07/90]
q
Warranty
*
[AS63000( ALL)08/95]
Your sound system is warranted for three years
or 36,000 miles (60,000 kilometers), whichever
comes first. Consult your vehicle warranty
booklet for further information. Ask your dealer
for a copy of this limited warranty.
*
[AS63200( ALL)07/90]
q
Service
*
[AS63300( ALL)04/96]
At Ford, we stand behind our audio systems
with a comprehensive service and repair
program. If anything should go wrong with
your Ford audio system, return to your dealer
for service. There is a nationwide network of
qualified Ford authorized repair centers to assist
you.
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Page 61 of 308
![Mercury Mercury Cougar 1997 Owners Manuals 59
Controls and Features
%*
[CF00200( ALL)01/96]
The main controls for the climate control system,
clock, and radio are on the instrument panel.
%*
[CF00300( ALL)03/96]
NOTE: Any cleaner or polish tha Mercury Mercury Cougar 1997 Owners Manuals 59
Controls and Features
%*
[CF00200( ALL)01/96]
The main controls for the climate control system,
clock, and radio are on the instrument panel.
%*
[CF00300( ALL)03/96]
NOTE: Any cleaner or polish tha](/manual-img/33/10905/w960_10905-60.png)
59
Controls and Features
%*
[CF00200( ALL)01/96]
The main controls for the climate control system,
clock, and radio are on the instrument panel.
%*
[CF00300( ALL)03/96]
NOTE: Any cleaner or polish that increases the
gloss (shine) of the upper part of the
instrument panel should be avoided.
The dull finish in this area is to help
protect the driver from undesirable
windshield reflection.
*
[CF00400( ALL)05/96]
Your vehicle has a variety of features designed
for your comfort, convenience and safety. Read
this chapter to find out about standard and
optional features.
%
*
[CF00500( ALL)03/96]
The Climate Control Systems
[CF00600( ALL)12/95]
Your vehicle has one of two different climate
control systems. The two systems are:
[CF00900( BCGV)12/95]
q
a manual heating and air conditioning system
[CF01000( BC )12/95]
q
a semi-automatic temperature control
system (if equipped)
*
[CF01200( ALL)12/95]
If you are not sure which system your vehicle
has, see the diagrams on the following pages.
% [CF03500( BCGV)12/95]
The Manual Heating and Air Conditioning
System
[CF03600( BCGV)05/96]
You can heat the inside of your vehicle, defrost
the windshield, and turn on the air conditioning
with the three controls in the center of the
instrument panel:
[CF03700( BCGV)12/95]
q
FAN
[CF03800( BCGV)12/95]
q
TEMP
[CF03900( BCGV)12/95]
q
SELECT
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![Mercury Mercury Cougar 1997 Owners Manuals 73
*
[CF24100( ALL)01/96]
Ignition
%*
[CF24200( ALL)01/96]
Understanding the Positions of the Ignition
[CF24300( ALL)12/95]
quarter page art:0010035-B
The positions of the key in the ignition
*
[CF245 Mercury Mercury Cougar 1997 Owners Manuals 73
*
[CF24100( ALL)01/96]
Ignition
%*
[CF24200( ALL)01/96]
Understanding the Positions of the Ignition
[CF24300( ALL)12/95]
quarter page art:0010035-B
The positions of the key in the ignition
*
[CF245](/manual-img/33/10905/w960_10905-74.png)
73
*
[CF24100( ALL)01/96]
Ignition
%*
[CF24200( ALL)01/96]
Understanding the Positions of the Ignition
[CF24300( ALL)12/95]
quarter page art:0010035-B
The positions of the key in the ignition
*
[CF24500( BCGV)04/96]
ACC allows some of your vehicle's electrical
accessories such as the radio and the windshield
wipers to operate while the engine is not
running.
% [CF24600( ALL)12/95]
LOCK locks the steering wheel. It also locks the
automatic transmission gearshift lever.
*
[CF24700( ALL)01/96]
LOCK is the only position that allows you to
remove the key. The LOCK feature helps to
protect your vehicle from theft.
*
[CF24800( ALL)01/96]
OFF allows you to shut off the engine and all
accessories without locking the steering wheel or
the automatic transmission gearshift lever.
*
[CF24900( ALL)01/96]
ON allows you to test your vehicle's warning
lights (except the brake system warning light) to
make sure they work before you start the
engine. The key returns to the ON position once
the engine is started and remains in this position
while the engine runs.
*
[CF25000( ALL)01/96]
START cranks the engine. Release the key once
the engine starts so that you do not damage the
starter. The key should return to ON when you
release it. The START position also allows you
to test the brake warning light.
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Page 103 of 308
![Mercury Mercury Cougar 1997 Owners Manuals 101 [CF67400( ALL)05/96]
When you use the remote entry UNLOCK,
TRUNK or PANIC controls, the illuminated
entry system turns on the interior lights for 25
seconds. You can turn these lights off with the Mercury Mercury Cougar 1997 Owners Manuals 101 [CF67400( ALL)05/96]
When you use the remote entry UNLOCK,
TRUNK or PANIC controls, the illuminated
entry system turns on the interior lights for 25
seconds. You can turn these lights off with the](/manual-img/33/10905/w960_10905-102.png)
101 [CF67400( ALL)05/96]
When you use the remote entry UNLOCK,
TRUNK or PANIC controls, the illuminated
entry system turns on the interior lights for 25
seconds. You can turn these lights off with the
LOCK control or by turning the ignition to the
RUN position. The interior lights will not turn
off if you have turned them on manually or if a
door is open.
%*
[CF68400( ALL)03/96]
Replacing the Batteries
*
[CF68500(MBC )05/96]
The remote is powered by two coin type
three-volt lithium 2016 batteries (included) that
should last for several years of normal use. If
you notice a significant decrease in operating
range, the batteries should be replaced.
Replacement batteries can be purchased at most
pharmacies, watch stores or at your Ford or
Lincoln-Mercury dealer.
*
[CF68700( ALL)01/96]
NOTE: The operating range of the remote
entry system can also be affected by
weather conditions (such as very cold
temperatures) or structures around the
vehicle (buildings, other vehicles, radio
and TV towers, etc.). Typical operating
range will allow you to be up to 33
feet (10 meters) away from your
vehicle.
*
[CF68800(MBC )01/96]
quarter page art:0020790-A
Replacing the batteries
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Page 153 of 308
![Mercury Mercury Cougar 1997 Owners Manuals 152
*
[GF01600( ALL)01/96]
Do not drive with your foot resting on the brake
pedal; you will wear out the linings and increase
your vehicles stopping distance. Brake rotor
damage may also eventually o Mercury Mercury Cougar 1997 Owners Manuals 152
*
[GF01600( ALL)01/96]
Do not drive with your foot resting on the brake
pedal; you will wear out the linings and increase
your vehicles stopping distance. Brake rotor
damage may also eventually o](/manual-img/33/10905/w960_10905-152.png)
152
*
[GF01600( ALL)01/96]
Do not drive with your foot resting on the brake
pedal; you will wear out the linings and increase
your vehicle's stopping distance. Brake rotor
damage may also eventually occur.
*
[GF01700( ALL)02/96]
NOTE: If you are driving down a long or
steep hill, shift to a lower gear and do
not apply your brakes continuously. If
you apply your brakes continuously,
they may overheat and become less
effective.
%*
[GF01800( ALL)01/96]
Occasional brake squeal during light to moderate
stops does not affect the function of the brake
system and is normal. However, if the squeal
becomes louder or more frequent, have your
brakes inspected by your dealer or a qualified
service technician.
[GF01900( ALL)12/95]
Ford Motor Company has not found any
detrimental effects of popular mobile radio
transmitting equipment installed on vehicles
with the anti-lock brake system, if the equipment
is installed according to the manufacturer's
instructions. However, if mobile radio
transmitting equipment is installed in your
vehicle and, if either the anti-lock brake system
cycles or the check anti-lock light comes on at
any time other than right after you turn the key
to ON or during a sudden stop, have your
mobile radio dealer inspect the installation.
%*
[GF02000( ALL)01/96]
Parking Brake
*
[GF02100( ALL)03/96]
The parking brake should be used whenever
you park your vehicle.
[GF02300( BCGV)12/95]
The parking brake pedal is suspended just below
the bottom of the instrument panel to the left of
the brake pedal.
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Page 274 of 308
277
*
[AC01400( ALL)05/96]
NOTE: When adding accessories, equipment,
passengers, and luggage to your
vehicle, do not exceed the total weight
capacity of the vehicle or of the front
or rear axle (GVWR, GAWR as shown
on the Safety Compliance Certification
Label). Consult your dealer for specific
weight information.
[AC01500( ALL)09/95]
NOTE: The Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) or in Canada the
Canadian Radio Telecommunications
Commission (CRTC) regulates the use
of mobile communications systems Ð
such as two-way radios, telephones,
and theft alarms Ð that are equipped
with radio transmitters. Any such
equipment installed in your vehicle
should comply with FCC regulation
and should be installed only by a
qualified technician.
File:15rcacc.ex
Update:Thu May 30 10:32:34 1996